Launched in 2003, the Mission Arts & Performance Project (MAPP) is a homegrown bi-monthly, multidisciplinary, unruly intercultural happening that takes place in the Mission District of San Francisco. The MAPP has produced over 65 neighborhood-level arts festivals since its inception.

MAPP is not an “art walk.” Instead, it’s a collage of 10-20 odd spaces transformed into micro art centers, focused on intimate artistic and cultural exchange among people. It was founded with some of the same organizational principles as the Red Poppy Art House (which still enthusiastically participates in MAPP as a neighborhood hub) as they both rely on the energy of the surrounding community, and operate with the help of many volunteers. Placing art and performance on the street level, MAPP utilizes such alternative spaces as private garages, gardens, living rooms, studios, street corners, and small businesses. At its heart, the MAPP shows how ordinary spaces can be made extra-ordinary through creative techniques.

The MAPP also beautifully demonstrates how individuals in a community in partnership with one another can create an integrated arts festival that does not require an expansive budget or commercial marketing strategies, but can happen through the inspired efforts of artists and community members working together with a unified and inclusive vision.

Part of the charm of the MAPP is that you never know quite what’s going to happen until you get there! This innovative platform allows serendipitous connections to emerge organically across visual artists, musicians, poets, dancers, choreographers, filmmakers, playwrights, and other artists, community organizers and local residents. However, adopting this platform also means sometimes not all of the most up-to-date information is available ahead of time. The point is to arrive and embrace the adventure. Plus, you’ll get a program (with an actual map) to navigate the event.

The MAPP takes place the first Saturday of the month on a bimonthly basis. It is a free event, which means all locations do not charge cover. And all the performers, artists, organizers and venues create this event out of pure love for the art and community. MAPP is always in need of support and we would love to have your ideas and energy.

For more information or to get involved as a host venue, artist or street-level curator (and curate a space of your own!), please come out to the next MAPP meeting. For information, visit mappsf.com or contact info@redpoppyarthouse.org